The local media have had no doubt in who they’re tipping to win the Men’s Player of the Season at tonight’s Player Awards’ 2022.
The pundits gave their thoughts on their choice, although they all seem pretty certain as to who will take home the award.
Johnny Cantor – BBC Sussex
Pick: Marc Cucurella
He has consistently been the best performer for the team and he has played in a variety of positions. He has managed to adapt to the Premier League exceptionally quickly, which is no mean feat coming from another country. He provides great defensive cover, but also a real attacking threat. And of course, because he has got the best hair in the Premier League!
Brian Owen – The Argus
Pick: Marc Cucurella
I have to join what is an overwhelming majority and pick Marc. It’s reflected in the fact he is so consistent every single week. He’s able to head off any danger with his pace and he’s good on the ball. He’s adapted well to the Premier League, which can be hard, and has settled into the team seamlessly. He gives the best performance he can every 90 minutes – he’s the best performer of a good bunch.
Andy Naylor – The Athletic
Pick: Marc Cucurella
When James Ward-Prowse got that free-kick that turned the game, [against Southampton at the Amex in April] Marc was partly at fault for that, but it springs to mind because it’s the only mistake I can think of that he’s made over the course of an entire season. He has played in every game that he’s been available for. You can see from his background coming through at Barcelona that technically he’s very good, but he’s also strong without the ball.
He’s versatile, he can play in all the positions on the left and has slotted in at left centre-back comfortably. I’d give a couple of honourable mentions to Leo Trossard, who is having his best season for the club, and Joel Veltman as well, defensively he’s been very sound and dependable. Value for money wise, he’s proved to be one of the best buys.
Nick Szczepanik – Freelance writer for The Times and The Independent
Pick: Marc Cucurella
He’s played every minute since he made his debut. He’s so consistent, he’s versatile, he can play anywhere on the left, he gets good crosses in, he’s creative. He’s played left side of a back three, any position on that left side is his. He has brilliant hair and I can’t remember him having a bad game. Even when he’s been very occasionally outpaced, the rest of his game and his enthusiasm is fantastic. Him and Enock Mwepu have added a real enthusiasm, they play with a smile on their face – not that the others don’t! – but Marc has brought a bit of spark to the team. It’s hard to fault him.
Richie Mills - SussexLive
Pick: Marc Cucurella
It's hard to remember a time when Marc Cucurella had a bad game for Brighton. No matter where he plays, be it at centre-back, left-back, or left wing-back - the Spaniard never lets his team down. There's an argument to say he's become one of the best wing-backs in the Premier League and there could be so much more to come from him.
Derren Howard – Brighton Independent
Pick: Marc Cucurella
The way he has adapted from playing for Getafe has been excellent. He’s not been injured and has added so much to that left side. He’s been outstanding. It’s also worth mentioning Joel Veltman as well, who has had a very solid season.